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This is a highly decorative antique Regency Gonçalo Alves and brass inlaid writing and stationery slope of rectangular shape, circa 1820 in date.
The box is profusely inlaid with decorative brass foliate scrollwork decoration and features recessed brass military handles to the sides.
The interior is beautifully finished in the original red suede writing surface and has the two original glass inkwells with bronze lids.
The slope has a secret compartment with three small drawers hidden under the writing surface which is opened with a spring lock under one of the ink wells.
It has the original working lock with key.
This is a highly decorative piece which will make a statement once placed on any period desk.
Condition:
In excellent condition, please see photos for confirmation.
Dimensions in cm:
Height 16 x Width 35 x Depth 24
Dimensions in inches:
Height 6 inches x Width 1 foot, 2 inches x Depth 9 inches
Our reference: 09637
Please feel free to email or call us (+44 20 8809 9605) to arrange a viewing in our North London warehouse.
Gonçalo Alves is a hardwood (from the Portuguese name, Gonçalo Alves). It is sometimes referred to as tigerwood — a name that underscore the wood’s often dramatic, contrasting color scheme..
While the sapwood is very light in color, the heartwood is a sombre brown, with dark streaks that give it a unique look. The wood’s color deepens with exposure and age and even the plainer-looking wood has a natural luster.
Two species are usually listed as sources for gonçalo alves: Astronium fraxinifolium and Astronium graveolens, although other species in the genus may yield similar wood; the amount of striping that is present may vary.
In the high tropical forests of Central and South America, well-drained soils furnish nutrients for a variety of dense, durable hardwoods sought for maritime use, heavyconstruction, and furniture. The Spanish began harvesting in Latin American forests in the early 1500s to provide timber for boatbuilding and repair. By the early 1900s, however, steel ships had replaced wooden ones, and the interest in tropical forests by both Europeans and Americans shifted to appearance-grade woods for furniture.
Although history fails to provide us with a shopping list of species from either harvest period, it's probable that the wood we know today as goncalo alves has always been sought. That's because goncalo alves, considered one of the most beautiful of tropical woods, has a tough reputation, too. Strong and durable, it's used for construction in its homeland and secondarily for fine furniture. Woodworkers elsewhere treasure the wood for decorative items and veneer accents.
Dimensions in cm:
Height 16 x Width 35 x Depth 24
Dimensions in inches:
Height 6 inches x Width 1 foot, 2 inches x Depth 9 inches
Shipping:
We ship worldwide and deliver to Mainland UK addresses free of charge.
A shipping cost to all other destinations must be requested prior to purchase.
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Delivery and return policy:
We require that someone be home on the agreed delivery day if applicable, otherwise a redelivery fee will apply.
In accordance with Distance Selling Regulations, we offer a 14-day money back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the item.
The item must be returned in its original packaging and condition.
Unless the item is not as described in a material way, the buyer is responsible for return shipping expenses.
Buyers are fully responsible for any customs duties or local taxes that may be incurred on items sent outside of the European Union.
